College of Liberal Arts 2013 Milestones for Doctoral Programs

Wed, Jun 11, 2014

In May of 2011, UT System Chancellor Francisco G. Cigarroa outlined a framework for advancing excellence through the University of Texas System. In his framework document Chancellor Cigarroa noted:

“The University of Texas needs to provide leadership in compressing the time to receive a Ph.D. And because doctoral students can no longer be assured of a faculty position in the job market, we must do a better job of advising and mentoring them and helping them pursue multiple career opportunities whether in academia, business, or other areas. We have the responsibility to and we must demand greater accountability at all levels in our doctoral degree programs, including a thoughtful review of how we fund graduate education, so that UT can successfully compete for the very best graduate students from around the world.” (p. 5)

In response, a task force of graduate deans from across the UT System came up with the Milestone Agreement form, which was approved by the Board of Regents for use system-wide. As of Fall 2013, students seeking a Ph.D. must sign the milestone agreement form upon entry into a doctoral program.

Below you will find a summary of some of the milestones as defined by College departments and programs. A printable PDF of the milestone summary document is available for download here.